INSIDE THE MAKOTI FESTIVAL’S CELEBRATED HEADLINER HISTORY

As the fifth edition of Eswatini’s premier cultural festival approaches on May 2, 2026, we take a journey through four extraordinary years of world-class performances that have made the Makoti Festival a must-visit destination on the regional calendar.

The Makoti Festival has grown into one of the Kingdom’s most celebrated cultural tourism events. Since its inaugural edition in 2022, the festival has earned a well-deserved reputation for drawing acclaimed regional and international headliners to its stage, a tradition that continues to attract visitors from across southern Africa and beyond.

Now entering its highly anticipated fifth edition, the festival returns to its beloved home at the Malkerns Country Club on May 2, 2026, promising another unforgettable celebration of music, culture, fashion, and Swati identity.

FOUR EDITIONS. FOUR STELLAR LINEUPS.

For travellers and music lovers planning a visit to Eswatini, understanding what the Makoti Festival has delivered in the past is the best preview of what awaits. Here is a look at the headline acts that have graced the festival stage:

First Edition — April 23, 2022

The festival opened its doors with a lineup that set the bar high from the very beginning. Headliners included the late South African singer-songwriter and guitarist Zahara (Bulelwa Mkutukana), SA Gospel sensation Jumbo, Maskandi star Mzukulu, Country Music favourite Cleopatra Methula, and Khole.

This inaugural edition established the Makoti Festival as a platform where authentic African music and culture take centre stage.

Second Edition

The second chapter brought South African singer and rapper Sjava (Jabulani Hadebe) to Malkerns, alongside Gospel legend Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Maskandi extraordinaire Shwi, and the ever-popular Floewe.

The cross-border appeal of the festival continued to grow, drawing visitors from South Africa eager to experience Eswatini’s warm hospitality alongside world-class entertainment.

Third Edition

The third edition elevated the festival to international heights, headlined by Grammy Award winner for Best Global Music, South African singer-songwriter Nomcebo Zikode. Joining her on stage were Gospel legend and former Joyous Celebration vocalist Ntokozo Mbambo, acclaimed Maskandi artist Mthandeni, and Eswatini’s own global ambassador, Bholoja Ngubane.

The inclusion of a Grammy Award-winning artist underscored the Makoti Festival’s growing stature as a world-class cultural tourism destination.

Fourth Edition

The most recent edition delivered perhaps the most diverse lineup yet, with South African Gospel icon Dr. Rebecca Malope topping the bill. She was joined by Mozambique’s Queen of Afro-beat, Lizha James; Maskandi star UGatsheni (Khuzani Ndlovu); Phumla Music; local veteran Mshikishi; the legendary Shongwe and Khuphuka; Siyinqaba; and Makhoyane master Gogo Mpila.

This edition beautifully highlighted the festival’s SADC spirit, with artists representing South Africa, Mozambique, and Eswatini sharing a single stage.

A REGIONAL TOURISM MAGNET

Beyond the performances, the Makoti Festival has become a meaningful driver of regional tourism. Over the years, the festival has forged cultural and media partnerships with three SADC countries; South Africa, Lesotho, and Mozambique, reflecting the Kingdom’s broader vision of cross-border tourism integration.

In the lead-up to this year’s festival, media activations were held in Maputo, Mozambique, and Mbombela in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province, generating regional buzz and inviting neighbouring audiences to add Eswatini to their travel itineraries.

FIFTH EDITION: WHAT TO EXPECT ON MAY 2, 2026

This year’s edition promises to be another milestone. The 2026 lineup features South African DJ sensation DJ Zinhle, alongside Nothando Hlophe, Velemiseni, Sarnilo, Culolami, DJ Sky White, DJ Picat the Italian, Young Zesh, DJ Cup, Stella Jacobs, and many more exciting acts to be announced.

Beyond the music, the Makoti Festival is proudly family-oriented, celebrating modern Swati womanhood in all its forms, married women, single women, and young girls aspiring to embrace their identity as makotis. Visitors can look forward to vibrant fashion stalls, food markets, and live performances showcasing the best in contemporary and traditional Swati style.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

📍 Venue: Malkerns Country Club, Malkerns Valley, Eswatini

📅 Date: Friday, 2 May 2026

🎟️ General Admission: E300 | VIP Tickets: E500

Tickets are available via Howler, Computicket, Mojaticket, and the official website at www.makotifestival.com

Whether you are a local resident or an international traveller, the Makoti Festival offers a truly immersive window into Eswatini’s vibrant culture. Add it to your 2026 travel calendar, the Kingdom is ready to welcome you.